Connecting a global workforce: Jose U.’s career at Cummins Inc.

At Cummins Inc., connection goes beyond collaboration. It is about creating an environment where employees across countries, languages and cultures feel seen, supported and empowered to do meaningful work. For Jose U., a Senior Project Coordinator based in Nashville, Tennessee, that belief has shaped both his personal journey and his career at Cummins.

“I’ve been with Cummins for eight years as of February 2026,” Jose said. “Looking back, every stop along the way helped prepare me for where I am today.”

A global perspective shaped through experience

Jose’s journey began in Honduras, where he grew up before moving to the United States to study Communications and Public Relations at the University of South Alabama.

“College was a defining time for me,” he said. “Those experiences taught me how to connect with people from all walks of life, adapt quickly and balance creativity with hard work.”

After graduating, he returned to Honduras to teach English before transitioning into marketing and advertising. His work included public relations campaigns, creative projects and global brands, helping him refine his ability to communicate across industries and audiences.

“I had the chance to work on a wide variety of creative projects,” he said. “Those experiences helped me build confidence and learn how to communicate in meaningful ways.”

In 2012, Jose relocated to Nashville, where he built experience in advertising, sales and account management. While his path was not linear, each step strengthened his ability to connect with people.

“My career has never been a straight line and I think that’s what makes it meaningful,” he said. “Every experience helped shape the empathy and people-first mindset that guide me today.”

Finding purpose at Cummins

In 2018, Jose joined Cummins as a bilingual Customer Order Management Analyst, a role that marked a turning point in his career.

“That opportunity completely changed the direction of my career,” he said.

The company’s global reach initially caught his attention, but a personal connection made the opportunity even more meaningful.

“I remember seeing a Cummins calendar at my dad’s workplace when I was younger,” he said. “At the time, I never imagined I would build a career here. Now, it means a lot knowing how proud he is.”

Across every role, Jose has remained focused on communication as a way to connect people across cultures.

“As someone who learned to navigate new environments in my second language, I’ve always valued communication, adaptability and making people feel understood,” he said.

Supporting a global workforce through communication

Early in his Cummins career, Jose supported distributors across Latin America and the Caribbean, gaining experience in global operations and cross-cultural communication.

“That experience taught me how important it is to understand different communication styles and build strong relationships,” he said.

In 2022, he transitioned to the Translation Services team as a Senior Project Coordinator. Today, he supports communication across languages and regions, helping ensure employees worldwide have access to clear, accurate information.

His work includes video translation, ASL interpretation coordination, eLearning localization, document translation and multilingual communication initiatives.

“At the heart of it all, my role is about helping people connect,” he said. “It is about making sure employees across the globe feel informed, included and supported.”

Creating impact through employee experience

For Jose, success is measured by the impact communication has on employees.

“One of the most rewarding parts of my job is receiving positive feedback after a project is completed,” he said. “It’s a reminder that communication matters and that even behind the scenes, our work can make someone’s day easier.”

He sees equitable communication as essential to building an inclusive workplace.

“Every culture deserves the same level of respect, support and communication, no matter where they are located,” he said.

He also values the collaboration behind that work.

“We may be a small team but we accomplish a tremendous amount together,” he said. “We’re constantly finding creative ways to support a global workforce.”

A culture of belonging and inclusion

Jose describes the culture at Cummins as inclusive, supportive and people focused.

“From day one, I’ve felt like I belong here,” he said. “It’s an environment where learning is encouraged and employees are reminded that they matter.”

Beyond his day-to-day role, Jose has helped create opportunities for connection. He led GOAL Nashville, the company’s Latino affinity group, for three years and founded the Right Environment Committee at his site in 2026.

“I’ve always enjoyed bringing people together,” he said. “Creating spaces where people feel supported and connected really matters.”

As an immigrant, inclusion is deeply personal.

“I understand how important it is for people from different backgrounds to feel respected and represented,” he said. “I carry that mindset into everything I do.”

Resilience and the power of support

In 2023, Jose faced a life-changing challenge when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor and underwent a 13-hour surgery.

“It was one of the scariest moments my family and I have ever faced,” he said.

During his recovery, the support he received from colleagues reinforced the company’s culture.

“The kindness and encouragement I received made me feel seen, valued and supported,” he said. “In moments like that, you find out what kind of people surround you.”

His team stepped in to support him without hesitation.

“My manager showed incredible compassion and my team carried my workload while I focused on healing,” he said.

That experience reshaped his perspective.

“It reminded me that behind every project and deadline are people who truly care about one another.”

Growth and opportunity at Cummins

Throughout his career, Jose has grown through both his role and involvement in employee-led initiatives, strengthening his leadership, communication and creativity.

“These experiences allowed me to make a meaningful impact on the people around me,” he said.

He remains focused on continuing to learn and grow.

“Cummins has taught me that growth does not always happen in a straight line,” he said. “If you stay open to opportunities, the sky is the limit.”

Staying grounded and giving advice to others

Outside of work, Jose expresses his creativity through music as a member of the Nashville-based band Pretty Ravens. He also enjoys film, live music and spending time with family.

“Staying connected to my roots and the people I love keeps me grounded,” he said.

For those considering a career at Cummins, his advice is simple.

“Don’t think twice about it,” he said. “This is a place where you can grow into the best version of yourself.”

He encourages candidates to stay curious and embrace collaboration.

“If you come in willing to learn and be a good teammate, the opportunities are endless,” he said.

He adds one final reflection.

“We Are Cummins is more than a phrase,” he said. “After my experience here, I can honestly say those words truly mean something.”